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UK restaurant main courses: calories, salt and saturated fat compared

Every main course across UK restaurant chains broken down by dish, with cooking method and accompaniments compared against NHS daily reference intakes.

Main courses vary more within a menu than between chains. Cooking method and sauce usually matter more than the protein at the centre of the dish.

Where the variation comes from

Fried and breaded dishes carry substantially more calories and saturated fat than grilled or roasted equivalents of the same protein. Creamy sauces add more again.

Accompaniments included in the dish price change the figures considerably. Chips, rice and garlic bread frequently contribute more than the main protein.

Salt across a full main

A single main course commonly carries half an adult's daily salt allowance and can exceed a child's entire allowance. Stock, cured meat, cheese and sauces all contribute.

Sharing platters and mixed grills concentrate several salt sources into one dish and sit at the top of most menus on both salt and saturated fat.

Browse every UK restaurant main course

Each product page includes a full nutrition breakdown per serving and per pack, portion size comparisons, age-adjusted NHS daily reference intake calculations for children aged 4 to 17, an interactive calculator for your child's specific age and gender, and a complete ingredient and allergen guide.